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Mucinex DM is a cough medicine that contains dextromethorphan, a cough
suppressant, and guaifenesin, an expectorant that helps loosen mucus in
your throat
and lungs.

This combination of two drugs helps to loosen mucus or phlegm and thin
out bronchial secretions, making coughs more productive.

Mucinex DM helps to lower the intensity of coughing and the urge to
cough, so you can sleep better.

Originally manufactured as a prescription drug, Mucinex DM was switched
to over-the-counter (OTC) status in 2014.

It is distributed by Reckitt Benckiser in two strengths: Mucinex DM has
30 milligrams of dextromethorphan and 600 mg of guaifenesin; Mucinex DM
Maximum
Strength has 60 mg of dextromethorphan and 1200 mg of guaifenesin.

Tablets are formulated as extended release, which are meant to work for
12 hours. Mucinex DM is for adults and children age 12 years and older.

Many other OTC brands of cough suppressants and expectorants containing
dextromethorphan and guaifenesin exist.

In 2007, the FDA began to take action against companies that marketed
drugs containing guaifenesin in time-release formulations that did not
have FDA
approval. The FDA took this measure to be sure these products released
the active ingredients in a safe manner.

Mucinex DM tablets have a distinct odor caused by the guaifenesin, the
drug maker says.

Mucinex DM Warnings

You should not take Mucinex DM if you are taking prescription drugs
known as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for depression. These
include
isocarboxazid (Marplan), Naardil (phenelzine), Parnate
(tranylcypromine), and others.

You should also not take Mucinex DM if you are on certain other
antidepressants or on medication to treat Parkinson's disease.

Pregnancy and Mucinex DM

Mucinex DM is a Pregnancy Category C drug, according to the FDA, which
means that harm to a developing fetus cannot be ruled out. If you are
pregnant,
don't take Mucinex DM without first asking your doctor.

If you are breastfeeding, check with your doctor before taking Mucinex
DM.

According to some unsubstantiated Internet reports, a certain number of
women believe that taking Mucinex DM may help them get pregnant,
perhaps by
thinning their cervical mucus and making it easier for the sperm to
swim up and meet the egg.

On pregnancy and fertility websites for consumers, some women claim it
helps and others do not think so. However, the evidence appears to be
entirely
anecdotal.

Mucinex DM (Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin) Interactions

You should always tell your doctor about any prescription,
non-prescription, over-the-counter (OTC), illegal and recreational
drugs, herbal remedies,
nutritional and dietary supplements, and all other drugs and treatments
youâ€™re taking.

Mucinex DM and Drug Interactions

Mucinex DM can interact with some other medications including certain
antidepressants and drugs for Parkinson's disease. Be sure your doctor
knows if you
are on these medicines.

Mucinex DM and Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking Mucinex DM may intensify side effects
such as dizziness and drowsiness.

Ask your doctor if you should avoid alcohol or limit it while on
Mucinex DM.

Mucinex DM and Grapefruit

If you take Mucinex DM with certain liquids, including grapefruit and
orange juices as well as milk and caffeinated beverages, it may lower
the absorption
of the medicine.

The drug manufacturer recommends taking Mucinex with a full glass of
water. It does not need to be taken with food.

Mucinex DM (Dextromethorphan-guaifenesin) Dosage

When you take Mucinex DM, do not crush, break, or chew the tablets.
This may interfere with the extended release feature of the medicine.

The dose you take depends on whether you are taking regular Mucinex DM
or Maximum Strength.

For Mucinex DM:

One or two tablets every 12 hours

For Mucinex DM Maximum Strength:

One tablet every 12 hours

Mucinex DM is meant for short term use to minimize symptoms of cough.
Some people start to feel the effects of the medicine fairly quickly
after the first
dose. For others, it may take several doses to begin to feel better.

Mucinex DM Overdose

Do not exceed the doses listed on the label. If you feel like you have
taken too much Mucinex DM, contact your doctor or visit the nearest
hospital
emergency room.

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